With the Taylor Builder's Edition 816ce, Andy Powers, Taylor's chief luthier and renowned for his innovations, demonstrates that it is possible to produce an "over-the-top" high-end guitar in series in an extraordinary form. This perfectly shaped guitar in newly designed Grand Symphony size offers the guitar player not only a breathtaking sound but also an unsurpassable playing comfort. The combination of Lutz Spruce and East Indian Rosewood flatters with its brilliant trebles and a very warm and powerful bass. It is immediately noticeable from the very first note that the philosophy of the manufacturer is clearly focused on maximum sound development. Due to its well-thought-out construction with slightly rounded edges, the Taylor Builder's Edition 816ce is very comfortable to play and shows that neither quality nor attention to detail is spared when building the instrument.
The craftsmanship is particularly noticeable in the design of the cutaway, which not only allows access to the highest frets, but is also designed with the player's hand in mind. The matt mahogany neck with an ebony fretboard is incredibly easy to play and, in combination with the newly designed V-Class bracing, ensures perfect intonation in all frets. In addition, the Builder's Edition is equipped with precise Gotoh 510 machine heads in antique gold, which allow for clean tuning due to their fine 1:21 ratio.
The additional sound hole added to the cutaway offers a completely new dimension in sound development and opens up a three-dimensional and orchestral sound image for both the player and the listener, which only does justice to the multi-faceted appearance. The maple binding matched to the woods, the single ring soundhole rosette made of green abalone and the shell and mother-of-pearl Windansea inlays demonstrate that the 800 series is very clearly recognizable. The high quality ES-2 Expression System guarantees that the Builder's Edition can also deliver its unique sound when amplified and is perfectly tuned for stage use. The entire work is rounded off with an elaborate case designed with floral patterns, which guarantees the guitar the best protection during transport and storage.